Hurghada: 3-Island Speedboat, Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling

The best part of this Hurghada outing is the small private speedboat. Instead of spending much of your day aboard a large party boat, you move quickly between reefs, beaches, and sandbanks, with more time in the water. The crew may include guides such as Ahmed, Kareem, Tarek, or Adam, depending on the day.

I like the mix of two reef stops and three very different island visits. I also like the effort put into finding dolphins in the wild, with an 80 percent chance of seeing them. The main caution is that dolphin sightings are never guaranteed, and the busy sea around Hurghada can make a close encounter brief.

Key points

• Private speedboat for up to two people: A good fit if you want your own boat rather than a crowded group cruise.
• Two snorkeling stops: Expect about 35 minutes at each reef, with one stop often near the Balena shipwreck site.
• Three island settings: Orange Bay has the best-known beach scene, Magawish feels calmer, and Abu Monkar is a bare sandbank.
• Dolphin search in open water: Sightings are possible, but swimming with dolphins is not assured.
• Seven hours on the Red Sea: The fast boat lets you cover more ground than a standard slow-moving excursion.
• Fruit, water, and soft drinks included: Towels are not provided, and lunch details should be checked before departure.

Why the speedboat changes the day

This is not simply a beach transfer with a quick snorkel added. The boat itself is part of the fun. You leave the harbor after a short safety briefing, open the throttle, and cut across the Red Sea toward Giftun Island and the nearby reefs.

That speed matters. A conventional boat can spend a long time getting from Hurghada to the first stop. Here, the faster ride gives you more usable time at the islands and snorkeling sites. You still spend part of the day in transit, but the journey feels active rather than like dead time.

The boat has life jackets, a shaded area called a taneda, a stereo system, and space for a private group. Bring sunglasses that fit securely. One person lost a pair to the sea during the ride, a useful reminder that wind and spray are part of the package.

The private format is especially valuable for two people. At $233 per group of up to two, the price is not cheap compared with a large shared excursion. But if you are traveling as a couple or want control over the pace, the cost buys privacy, a smaller boat, and access to places that larger boats may reach later.

The morning pickup from Hurghada

Your hotel pickup is included for Hurghada locations, with other pickup zones available for an added fee. Those extended areas include Makadi Bay, Safaga, El Gouna, Sahl Hasheesh, and Soma Bay.

Do not expect the pickup time to be exact. Hurghada hotel pickups can vary by about an hour, and the extended areas can vary by up to 90 minutes. You receive the final details by email or WhatsApp at about 10 PM the night before, so check your phone before bed.

Look for the white or black vehicle with the Go Shalabi logo. Wait at the main entrance of the hotel, beside the road, not inside the reception area. The driver can wait only five minutes, since other pickups follow.

The ride to the harbor is listed at about 30 minutes. Have your passport copy, nationality, hotel name, address, and room number ready when requested. This may feel administrative, but it prevents a bad start to a day that depends on tight boat timing.

Searching for dolphins near Giftun Island

The first open-water section usually combines dolphin watching with the first snorkeling area around Giftun Island. The crew searches for dolphins in their natural setting rather than taking you to a captive show.

The stated chance of seeing dolphins is 80 percent. That is a strong possibility, not a promise. Dolphins move freely, and conditions change with weather, sea traffic, and the number of boats in the area.

If the crew spots them, you may get the chance to enter the water, but this depends on the animals and the conditions. You should not book this trip solely on the expectation of swimming with dolphins. A sighting from the boat can be exciting, while a close swim may last only a short time.

The sea can be busy. One outing produced only a quick glimpse because several larger boats were nearby. That is not necessarily a failure of the crew, but it is worth understanding before you pay for a dolphin-focused experience.

I also appreciate that some guides make an effort not to chase or block the animals. If dolphins appear, follow the crew’s instructions and let the animals set the pace. The most responsible encounter is the one that does not force contact.

Two reef stops, including the Balena wreck site

The snorkeling is one of the strongest reasons to choose this excursion. You get two water stops, normally around 35 minutes each, with a guide in the water. That guided support helps if you are new to snorkeling or uneasy in open water.

Several people have found the crew especially helpful with first-time snorkelers. A guide may stay beside you, point out fish, and help you settle into the mask and fins. If you are not a confident swimmer, say so before entering the water. Life jackets and guidance are available, but you remain responsible for your own comfort and safety.

The reefs offer clear water, colorful fish, and coral scenery. The second snorkeling period is listed near the Balena wreck site, and the wreck attracts plenty of fish. It adds variety to the day, since you are not simply repeating the same reef stop twice.

The timing can shift. The description gives two stops of about 35 minutes, while the schedule lists the wreck snorkeling at about 40 minutes. Treat those numbers as a useful guide, not a guarantee. Weather, dolphin activity, and harbor timing can affect the exact length.

Underwater photos and video may be offered for purchase at the end. Guides such as Saif and Ahmed have taken photos for guests on past trips. Decide in advance if you want this extra, and keep your own phone protected in a waterproof case.

Orange Bay on Giftun Island

Orange Bay is the most developed and recognizable beach stop. You get about an hour to swim, sit on the sand, take photos, or simply dry off after snorkeling.

The water is famously clear and shallow-looking in the photographs, but you still need to follow local instructions and watch your footing. The beach setting is the sort of place where you will want a phone or camera, so a waterproof pouch is useful.

Orange Bay can be popular. The advantage of reaching it early is a quieter beach and easier photo opportunities. The drawback is that the stop may feel less remote than the smaller sandbank later in the day.

I would use this hour for a quick swim and photos rather than expecting a completely empty island. The beauty is real, but the stop is also a known attraction on the Hurghada circuit.

Magawish Island and the quieter hour

Magawish Island gives you another hour by the water, but the mood can feel calmer than Orange Bay. Its clear sea, pale sand, and open views make it a good place to slow down after the faster sections of the trip.

This stop matters because the day is not all motion. You have already spent time speeding across the sea, looking for dolphins, and snorkeling. Magawish gives you a proper break, with time to sit under shade, swim, or take pictures without rushing straight back onto the boat.

Do not expect elaborate sightseeing on the island. The appeal is the beach and the water. If you prefer active tours from start to finish, an hour here may feel long. I see that as a plus for most people, especially if you want a full Red Sea day rather than a short photo stop.

Abu Monkar sandbank

The Abu Monkar, or Juzur Abu Minqar, stop is the most unusual setting on the route. It is a low sandbank surrounded by water, with little more than sand, sea, and sky.

You get about 30 minutes for walking, swimming, and photographs. The place can feel wonderfully spare, with none of the buildings and beach facilities associated with Orange Bay.

That simplicity also means you should not expect shade, services, or a long visit. Bring sun protection and follow the crew’s timing. The sandbank is best understood as a short scenic stop, not a place for a full afternoon.

The contrast between the three island visits is what makes the route work. Orange Bay is the polished beach stop, Magawish is the calmer island break, and Abu Monkar is the natural sandbar pause.

Food, drinks, shade, and comfort

Seasonal fruit, water, and soft drinks are included. These small comforts matter on a seven-hour boat day, particularly after time in the sun and salt water.

Lunch requires a little care. The official inclusions list does not clearly promise a full meal, although some outings have included two sandwiches, pastries, fruit, and drinks. If you need a substantial lunch or have dietary needs, ask before departure or bring a suitable snack.

There is shade on the speedboat, but this is still an outdoor day. Pack sunscreen, a hat, a towel, sunglasses, and a dry change of clothes. Towels are not included.

Personal belongings are your responsibility. Keep passports, phones, jewelry, and cameras in a sealed dry bag. The operator does not accept responsibility for lost or damaged items.

The activity is not suitable for people with back problems. Speedboat travel can be bumpy, especially when the boat is moving quickly or the sea is choppy.

What the $233 price really buys

At $233 per group of up to two, this is best compared with a private charter, not a standard shared boat trip. The cost includes hotel transfer within Hurghada, the speedboat, captain, English-speaking guide, snorkeling gear, reef stops, island fees, nature reserve fees, life jackets, fruit, and drinks.

For a couple, the price can make sense if you value space and a faster route. You are paying for the boat and private arrangement rather than just admission to the islands. It is less compelling if your main goal is the lowest-cost way to sit on a beach or snorkel for a short time.

The seven-hour duration also helps the value. You are not rushing through one reef and one beach. You get dolphin watching, two water stops, three island settings, transfers, and a long stretch at sea.

The optional five-minute flying experience gives you a short aerial view of the Red Sea. The supplied details do not specify the exact price, so treat it as an add-on and confirm the cost before agreeing. It may appeal to thrill seekers, but it is not needed to enjoy the main tour.

Who should book this Hurghada boat trip?

I would choose this outing if you want a full Red Sea day with variety. It suits couples, small private groups, first-time snorkelers who want a guide nearby, and people who dislike the slow pace of a large excursion boat.

It is also a good choice for photographers. Orange Bay, Magawish, the sandbank, the wreck site, and the speedboat ride all give you different subjects. The crew may also take underwater photos and videos that you can purchase.

You should think twice if you need guaranteed dolphin contact, a long uninterrupted snorkeling session, or a formal lunch. Dolphin watching is wildlife viewing, and the sea can be crowded. The island stops are beautiful, but some are popular and developed.

The tour has a strong record of friendly, attentive service. Captains and guides have helped nervous swimmers, marked birthdays, handled transport mix-ups, and stayed with people in the water. Names vary, but the repeated strength is the crew’s hands-on approach.

Small details that make the day easier

The tour is private, but the harbor and wildlife areas may not be quiet. Other boats can gather near dolphins and popular beaches, especially later in the morning.

Go early if possible. Several outings began around 7:30 or 8:15, even when the advertised tour start was closer to 9. Early departures can help you reach the islands before the largest crowds.

Bring cash for optional extras, photos, video, or the short flying activity. Carry a towel because none is supplied, and use a waterproof bag for everything you cannot afford to lose.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before departure, and you can reserve now and pay later. Long-distance pickup must be added for the listed outer resort areas, and late cancellation rules apply after 6 PM the day before.

Should you book it?

Book this tour if you want the most variety from one Hurghada sea day: fast transfers, two snorkeling stops, a chance to see dolphins, three island settings, and a private boat for two.

Skip it if you want certainty. No operator can guarantee dolphins, empty beaches, perfect water, or a full lunch unless those points are confirmed in advance. For a couple that values privacy and active sightseeing, the $233 group price is fair. For budget-minded swimmers, a shared boat will cost less, but it will likely feel slower and more crowded.

FAQ

How long is the speedboat tour?

The activity lasts about seven hours, including the boat trip, snorkeling, dolphin watching, island visits, and return transfer.

Is hotel pickup included?

Pickup and drop-off are included from Hurghada hotels. Pickup from Makadi Bay, Safaga, El Gouna, Sahl Hasheesh, and Soma Bay requires an added fee.

Where do I wait for pickup?

Wait at the main entrance of your hotel by the road, not at the reception entrance. Look for a white or black vehicle with the Go Shalabi logo.

When will I receive my pickup time?

Pickup details are sent by email or WhatsApp at about 10 PM the night before the trip. The time can vary by about 60 minutes in Hurghada and up to 90 minutes in extended pickup areas.

How likely am I to see dolphins?

The stated chance is 80 percent. Dolphins are wild, so sightings and swimming opportunities are not guaranteed.

Will I swim with dolphins?

Swimming with dolphins may be possible if conditions allow, but it is not assured. The crew searches for dolphins in the open sea.

How many snorkeling stops are included?

Two snorkeling stops are included, usually lasting about 35 minutes each. One stop may be near the Balena wreck site.

Are snorkeling equipment and drinks included?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment, a guide, life jackets, seasonal fruit, water, and soft drinks are included.

Do I need to bring a towel?

Yes. Towels are not included, so bring your own, along with cash, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a dry change of clothes.